Wisconsin Football: Five Badgers Key to an Outback Bowl Victory
By Jim Oxley
No. 2: Linebacker Derek Landisch
The Wisconsin linebacker corps has been the strength of the defense this season, as evidenced by all four starters – Derek Landisch, Marcus Trotter, Joe Schobert and Vince Biegel – making one of the All-Conference teams.
And if the strength of the defense is the linebacking corps, the leader of the linebackers is Derek Landisch.
Sep 27, 2014; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker Derek Landisch (30) returns an interception during the game against the South Florida Bulls at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin won 27-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Marcus Trotter may be the emotional leader of the group, and he excels in the run game, but Landisch has been the best of the group when it comes to rushing the passer.
Landisch has nine sacks this season to lead the Badgers, and his 16 tackles for loss is also a team-high mark.
Facing Nick Marshall and the Auburn offensive attack, Landisch’s pass rushing skills will be vital.
Marshall is an athletic quarterback, and Landisch will likely play a big role in the Wisconsin scheme to contain the elusive quarterback.
Marshall has improved his passing game in the past year, as well, and putting pressure on him will ease the strain on the defensive backs.
If Landisch can provide a controlled pass rush against Auburn, the Badgers will be one step closer to an Outback Bowl win.
Next: No. 1: Running Back Melvin Gordon